History of Medicine

AIDS

As long as the AIDS epidemic continues, the only reliable means we have to minimize its consequences is either abstinence or the practice of safe sex. Much of the copious quantity of ephemera stresses safe sex habits,
particularly the proper use of condoms. A set of six greeting cards voicing optimistic hope has also been issued; these are meant to be sent, with or without a written message, to people with AIDS. A set of 120 trading cards, with portraits of men and women in some way connected with the epidemic as researchers, patients, philanthropists, etc. has also been published; a package of 12 different cards in the series, accompanied by a condom, were offered for sale for approximately $3.00 each. There are also messages specifically directed to women, African-Americans, Hispanics, drug users and the homosexual community. Certain publications from religious groups suggest retribution, while statements from politically oriented groups present specific demands.
For example, a crudely stenciled broadside from one such organization, ACT-UP, proclaiming that Healthcare is a right..., was removed from a wall at a construction site in Washington, DC, in the summer of 1991.